Holy Family, Southport: Walsingham Association
Statue of Our Lady of Walsingham

In 1061 the Lady Richeldis had a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary. She was transported in spirit to the Holy Land and shown the house in which the Virgin was told she was to be the Mother of God. The Virgin commanded Richeldis to build an exact replica of this house in Walsingham and told her that it would be known as "England's Nazareth".
Walsingham rapidly became one of the most foremost shrines in Christendom. Many Kings and Queens visited it. In fact Henry VIII was a great devotee until he broke with Rome. After this he executed both clergy and laity and burnt the statue of Our Lady.
For centuries Walsingham became a sleepy little backwater forgotten except by a few devout Catholics. In the 19th Century pilgrimages were revived and the Slipper Chapel established as the Catholic Shrine. In the 20th Century the Anglican Shrine was built and pilgrimages increased very rapidly. Today Walsingham is a thriving ecumenical pilgrimage centre which welcomes over 250,000 people each year.

“ ... to spread devotion to Our Lady of Walsingham and encourage pilgrimage to her Shrine ...”
   

What does the Walsingham Association do?

The Walsingham Association exists for devotion to Our Lady by prayers and support to the Shrine. It is a nationwide association with around 5000 members. Most members make an annual pilgrimage to Walsingham. However, in addition, some WA branches also have other pilgrimages to special Shrines and run excursions for members.

Each November the Walsingham Association holds its AGM and at this its policy os decided by its members. In March a further, more informal meeting takes place.

What can I expect from a Pilgrimage to Walsingham?

Walsingham has a deep sense of peace and tranquility which is unfortunately absent from many places in the modern world. However, a pilgrimage to Walsingham can be a life changing experience which brings many much closer to the Blessed Mother and her Son.

It is a mistake to think of pilgrimages as undiluted spirituality, that is a bit like living in a Monastery. Nothing could be further from the truth! Walsingham has several delightful pubs which are patronised by locals, pilgrims and passing travellers alike. Many lasting friendships result from the social aspects of a pilgri

Membership to the Walsingham Association is open to all. Membership fees for 2005 are:

  • Retired/Religious - £7.00 p.a.
  • Ordinary Membership - £9.00 p.a.
  • Family Membership - £12.00 p.a.

membership forms can be obtained by phoning 01328 820217 or emailing walsinghamassociation@walsingham.org.uk . The national website is www.walsingham.org.uk/romancatholic/

Email: walsingham@holyfamilysouthport.co.uk for more information

 

A few pictures from a Walsingham Association Pilgrimage...